2005 Jaguar XK vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Jaguar XK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Jaguar XK (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2005 Jaguar XK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Jaguar XK (393 Nm) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Jaguar XK | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2480 mm |
